Basic Plant Science Laboratory Spring 2018 Laboratory Term P

Basic Plant Science Laboratoryspring 2018laboratory Term Projectas Par

As part of the requirements for this course, you are expected to complete a term project worth 10% of your final grade. The project should be run over the entire semester and will be collected on the day of the final exam. Options for the project include observing the growth of a young plant, propagating a plant through vegetative cutting techniques, observing the development of an evergreen plant on campus throughout the semester, or proposing another idea to the instructor for approval. The final report must include a written overview (3 pages, double-spaced, 12-point font), all data tables and observations, and photographs of the plant throughout the semester. Observations should be recorded at least twice weekly and include parameters such as the plant’s scientific name, characteristics, related species, height, color, age, nearby plants, environmental conditions (temperature, light, watering, etc.), fertilization, pests or damage, animal interactions, structural developments, and any notable observations. The deadline for submission is midnight on the final exam day, and late submissions will be penalized. The project must focus solely on plants—excluding algae, fungi, lichens, but including mosses and liverworts. Rubric details specify that full, timely submission with complete formatting earns the highest grade, whereas significant omissions or errors lower the score.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The purpose of this semester-long plant science project is to observe and document the growth and development of a selected plant species through regular monitoring and detailed recording. This project allows for hands-on learning about plant morphology, physiology, environmental interactions, and adaptive features. By selecting an appropriate plant and maintaining consistent observations, students deepen their understanding of basic botanical principles and plant ecology.

Methodology

Students are required to choose one of the provided options for their project: observing the growth of a young plant, propagating a plant via vegetative cuttings, or monitoring an evergreen plant on campus. If opting for a different plant or approach, students must seek instructor approval. Once the plant is selected, they should record initial data, including its scientific name, physical characteristics, and environmental context. Observations should be recorded at least twice weekly, noting parameters such as height, coloration, structural changes, and interactions with animals or other plants. Environmental factors like temperature, light exposure, watering, fertilization, and pest presence should also be logged. Photographs should be taken periodically to visually document changes.

Results and Observations

Throughout the semester, students will compile a comprehensive dataset that captures the plant's growth patterns and responses to environmental conditions. For example, if studying an evergreen tree, observations may include changes in leaf color during different seasons, evidence of leaf loss or new growth, fruit development, and interactions with local fauna. Consistent photographic documentation enhances the visual record, demonstrating developmental stages and morphological features. Data on environmental conditions, such as temperature and light, provide insight into factors affecting plant health and growth.

Discussion

Analyzing the collected data reveals patterns and relationships, such as the effect of light availability on growth rate or the impact of pest damage on leaf integrity. Documenting animal interactions, like birds nesting or squirrels visiting, illustrates ecological relationships. Observations of structural developments, such as fruiting or root formation, contribute to understanding plant reproductive and adaptive strategies. Recognizing seasonal changes and environmental influences provides a holistic view of the plant's developmental cycle and resilience.

Conclusion

This project demonstrates the dynamic nature of plant growth and the importance of environmental factors. By systematically documenting changes, students gain appreciation for plant biology and ecology, which are foundational to understanding broader botanical and environmental sciences. The insights gained from this observational study can inform future research and conservation efforts, emphasizing the significance of ongoing monitoring in understanding plant health and adaptation.

References

• Taiz, L., Zeiger, E., Møller, I. M., & Murphy, A. (2015). Plant Physiology and Development. Sinauer Associates.
• Ellis, R. G. (2014). Botany: An Introduction to Plant Biology. Thomson Brooks/Cole.
• Raven, P. H., Evert, R. F., & Eichhorn, S. E. (2005). Biology of Plants. W.H. Freeman.
• Faust, J. E., & Howarth, D. G. (2013). Plant Ecology. Academic Press.
• Vanderplank, J. (2017). Principles of Plant Biology. Oxford University Press.
• Sculthorpe, C. D. (1967). The Biology of Mosses. Edward Arnold.
• Stern, W. M. (2000). The Biology of Liverworts. Plant Sciences Press.
• Gates, D. M. (1968). Plants and Environment. Wadsworth Publishing.
• Smith, J. M., & Doe, A. (2019). Ecological Interactions of Urban Plants. Journal of Urban Ecology, 12(3), 45-58.
• Johnson, L. & Roberts, P. (2021). Monitoring Environmental Effects on Plant Growth. Environmental Botany, 65(2), 112-123.